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Senior Policy Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Policy Analyst - Senior

Springfield, VA · On-site

$103K - $181K/yr

The Policy Analyst- Senior,will advise andassistwith strategic planning, policy, and business analysis, with a focus on providing expert strategic- and operational-level assistance.The contractor ...

Policy Analyst - Senior

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$103K - $181K/yr

The Policy Analyst- Senior,will advise andassistwith strategic planning, policy, and business analysis, with a focus on providing expert strategic- and operational-level assistance.The contractor ...

Guidehouse is seeking a Policy Analyst - Senior Associate to support a federal public health client in advancing policy, governance, and strategic initiatives that support mission delivery and ...

Guidehouse is seeking a Policy Analyst - Senior Associate to support a federal public health client in advancing policy, governance, and strategic initiatives that support mission delivery and ...

Guidehouse is seeking a Policy Analyst - Senior Associate to support a federal public health client in advancing policy, governance, and strategic initiatives that support mission delivery and ...

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$135K - $150K/yr

SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst. This is a full-time position seated at the client site at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. Responsibilities The Senior Policy Analyst will ...

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115K - $145K/yr

SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst. This is a full-time position seated at the client site at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. Responsibilities The Senior Policy Analyst will ...

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115K - $145K/yr

SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst. This is a full-time position seated at the client site at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. #KS Responsibilities The Senior Policy Analyst ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Policy Analyst information

See salary details

$55.5K

$96.8K

$155K

How much do senior policy analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior policy analyst in the United States is $96,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior policy analyst?

Senior Policy Analysts are professionals who conduct research, evaluate data, and develop recommendations on public policies for governments, organizations, or think tanks. They analyze existing and proposed policies, assess their potential impacts, and prepare reports or briefings for decision-makers. Senior Policy Analysts often lead teams, manage complex projects, and provide expert advice to help shape strategic directions and legislative actions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior policy analyst?

To thrive as a Senior Policy Analyst, you need advanced analytical skills, research proficiency, and a strong background in public policy or a related field, typically supported by a relevant graduate degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy modeling software, and government databases is often required, along with experience in drafting policy briefs or reports. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills set outstanding analysts apart. These competencies are vital for producing insightful policy recommendations that influence decision-making and drive effective public outcomes.

How do senior policy analysts typically collaborate with other teams and stakeholders within an organization?

Senior Policy Analysts frequently work cross-functionally, engaging with colleagues in research, communications, government relations, and executive leadership to develop and refine policy recommendations. They often lead or participate in multi-disciplinary project teams, gather insights from subject matter experts, and present findings to both internal and external stakeholders. Building consensus and facilitating productive discussions are key aspects of the role, as is translating complex analysis into actionable advice for decision-makers. This collaborative environment fosters continuous learning and a broad perspective on organizational priorities.

What is the difference between Senior Policy Analyst vs Policy Analyst?

AspectSenior Policy AnalystPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, often a master's; experience preferredBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related field
Work EnvironmentMore complex projects, mentorship roles, strategic planningResearch, data analysis, report writing
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, think tanks, NGOsSimilar settings, entry to mid-level roles
Common Search & ComparisonHigher responsibility, experience requiredEntry-level, foundational policy work

The main difference between a Senior Policy Analyst and a Policy Analyst lies in experience, responsibilities, and project complexity. Senior Policy Analysts typically handle more strategic tasks, mentor junior staff, and have more industry experience, whereas Policy Analysts focus on research and data analysis at an entry or mid-level. Both roles are common in government, NGOs, and think tanks, but the senior position requires a deeper understanding and proven expertise.

More about Senior Policy Analyst jobs

What cities are hiring for Senior Policy Analyst jobs?

Cities with the most Senior Policy Analyst job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Analyst jobs?

The most popular types of Policy Analyst jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Senior Policy Analyst jobs?

The top employers for Senior Policy Analyst jobs are:

What states have the most Senior Policy Analyst jobs?

States with the most job openings for Senior Policy Analyst jobs include:

Infographic showing various Senior Policy Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,819 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Senior Policy Analyst (Policy and Legislative Services Division)

State of Virginia

Richmond, VA • Hybrid

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


State Of Virginia rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 50 rated states


Job description

Senior Policy Analyst (Policy and Legislative Services Division)

Apply now Job no: 5109757
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Richmond (City), Virginia
Categories: Administrative Services

Title: Senior Policy Analyst (Policy and Legislative Services Division)

State Role Title: Policy Planning Spec II

Hiring Range: $70K-$80K

Pay Band: 5

Agency: Dept of Housing & Cmnty Devel

Location: Main Street Centre

Agency Website: www.dhcd.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

DHCD Welcomes Veterans and Veteran Spouses!
Join Our Team at the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development!
Do you want to be at the forefront of shaping policies that impact housing, community development, and economic growth across Virginia? If so, we encourage you to apply for the Senior Policy Analyst position with the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).
As the Senior Policy Analyst, you will guide the creation of policies and regulations that empower communities, promote economic development, and ensure housing solutions that meet the needs of the population of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Your responsibilities will include conducting essential research, performing analysis, and offering strategic support to help the department create effective legislation and regulations that will have a lasting positive impact on the communities we serve. You will collaborate with local and regional governments and legislative bodies to turn innovative ideas into actionable outcomes.
You will work closely with the Policy Manager and Policy Director to:
Complete studies requested by the executive branch or internal DHCD units.
Prepare Legislative Action Summaries (LAS) based on reviewed and amended bills and resolutions and assess the impact of these bills to draft amendments when necessary.
Conduct issue analysis through research and evaluations based on emerging issues, concerns, and division initiatives to formulate findings and recommendations.
Provides technical assistance to local governments, state agencies, and the public on local government issues including boundary change and governmental transition
Guide agency personnel in creating or amending regulations.
If you possess the capability to dissect complex issues and translate them into clear, impactful solutions, this role is for you. Your ability to navigate legislative processes and cultivate relationships with government and private sector partners will be the key to your success.
Join us in making a meaningful impact on Virginia's future!
Commonwealth of Virginia benefits/incentives include:
Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
Tuition Reimbursement
Dental/Medical/Vision plans
Sick, Family/Personal, Annual, Military, and Community Service Leave
Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
Disability Plans (Short and Long Term)
Retirement and Savings plans
Life and Long-Term Care Insurance Telework Eligible Commonwealth of VA Employees ONLY discounts

Minimum Qualifications

Applied knowledge of Virginia state and local government structure and authority and intergovernmental relations.
Applied knowledge of local government, land use, economic development, and fiscal issues.
Applied knowledge of Virginia and federal regulatory and legislative processes.
Strong knowledge of data sources and demonstrated ability to locate and utilize appropriate resources.
Excellent skills in effectively communicating both orally and in writing.
Skilled in identifying issues, analyzing problems, developing solutions, and formulating and articulating findings and recommendations.
Skilled in managing multiple assignments and organizing and prioritizing work.
Demonstrated skills in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with agency staff, state and local officials, and public interest groups.
Demonstrated experience in the application of policy analysis, program evaluation, or planning/strategic planning methods would enhance the likelihood of performing successfully in this position.
Experience drafting comprehensive and accurate reports, summaries, briefing papers, position statements, and memoranda.
Experience in researching, analyzing, and interpreting federal and state laws and regulations and monitoring proposed changes.
Substantial experience in collecting, compiling, and accurately analyzing data.
Existing experience in using a PC and a variety of software to input data, produce graphics, and create and manipulate electronic databases.

Additional Considerations

Experience working with local governments and/or local government issues is preferred.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Application Process:
Individuals desiring to be considered for this position must submit a completed employment application or you may attach a resume before the position's closing date. Applications/changes received after the closing date will not be considered. Applications sent through postal mail, email, or fax will not be considered.
Applicants are encouraged to be specific regarding job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and abilities.
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
Supplemental Questions:
You may be required to respond to position-specific questions at the end of this application. This information may help us evaluate your credentials and qualifications for the job. Failure to respond to any questions may disqualify you from further consideration. Answers should be reflected in jobs and positions held.
Background and Reference Checks:
Selected applicants are subject to a background investigation and reference checks. Investigations may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI); local agency checks; employment verification; verification of education (if required and relevant to employment); credit checks; and other checks based on the position.
Lay off Policy 1.3:
If you have been impacted by the DHRM Policy 1.3 layoff and have a valid Interagency Placement Screening Form (Yellow Card) or Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Card), it is necessary to submit the card before the closing date for this position. You can include the Card as an attachment with your state application.
DHCD Welcomes Veterans and Spouses:
We are committed to recruiting, hiring, and retaining qualified Veterans and their spouses. Veterans who are hired into state positions may be eligible to receive additional leave accruals based on their total years of service in the military, National Guard, or Reserve. If applicable, please submit form DD-214 with your state application.
Sponsorship:
The Commonwealth of Virginia welcomes all applicants authorized to work in the United States. Sponsorship is not provided; therefore, applicants must be a citizen or national of the U.S., a Lawful Permanent Resident, or an alien authorized to work.
Reasonable Accommodations:
Accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact our Human Resources Department for further assistance.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
The Department of Housing and Community Development practices fair and equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. It is our policy to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or disability in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce. Qualified individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. It is our goal to foster a culture that demonstrates the principles of civility, diversity, opportunity, and inclusion.
Diversity, Opportunity, and Inclusion:
DHCD is committed to providing valuable opportunities for a diverse and inclusive environment where all employees feel supported. DHCD seeks to work with partners, grantees, and vendors who demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion as a practice and have a demonstrated record of this commitment.
Alternative Hiring Process:
In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019. Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Contact Information

Name: Human Resources

Phone: N/A

Email: rr-recruitment1@dhcd.virginia.gov

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Advertised: 18 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 31 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

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